New Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR to make debut at Worthersee

Volkswagen has announced the imminent arrival of the new Golf GTI TCR. The new model will become the most extreme GTI you can buy when it takes the place of the outgoing GTI Clubsport.

Power comes from an engine shared with both other GTI models and the Golf R. The TCR’s 2.0-litre turbo produces 286bhp and 370Nm – 49bhp up on the regular GTI – which is sent through the front wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch transmission and locking differential.

Official acceleration times have yet to be revealed, but the TCR should cover the 0-62mph sprint in about six seconds. The offer to remove the 155mph limiter gives a potential top speed of 164mph.

Official sketches show that styling changes over the regular GTI are likely to be subtle. A deeper front splitter and side skirts are complemented by a more aggressive rear diffuser, and unique TCR graphics feature too. The artwork also suggests that drilled brake discs will be housed behind a unique alloy wheel design.

The GTI TCR is named after the International Touring Car series in which VW competes, securing the 2017 driver’s title in the hands of Jean-Karl Vernay last year. It’s due to make its public debut at the Wörthersee VW festival in Austria on May 9.